Baby Spinach Salad with Goat Cheese and Dried Cherries

• FAST
• VEGETARIAN

Ingredients

1. 1 teaspoon unsalted butter
2. 1/3 cup sliced almonds
3. 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
4. 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
5. Salt and freshly ground pepper
6. One 10-ounce bag baby spinach
7. 1/2 cup dried sour cherries
8. 4 ounces mild goat cheese, crumbled

1. Melt the butter in a small skillet. Add the almonds and cook over moderately high heat, stirring constantly, until golden, about 3 minutes. Drain on paper towels and let cool completely.
2. In a small bowl, whisk the olive oil with the vinegar and season the vinaigrette with salt and pepper. In a large bowl, toss the spinach with the sour cherries and almonds. Add the vinaigrette and toss well. Add the goat cheese, toss the salad lightly and serve.